EP328 Intentionality, Identity, and the Exit Journey

What happens when your exit strategy is about more than just money? In this episode, host Colleen O’Connell-Campbell talks to April Harbottle, a highly experienced M&A advisor and business transition specialist. April has spent years helping small and mid sized business owners unlock the value of their companies and transition successfully, whether through exits or by scaling with new partnerships.

 

Together, they explore how values, identity, and leadership evolution shape the founder journey - especially when it's time to let go.

 

🔍 Key Highlights

 

Start with an assessment - April stresses the importance of getting a business assessment early. It gives clarity on what drives value and highlights the risks buyers will zero in on.

Value is only half the story - Beyond valuation, founders need to understand buyer concerns: risks, gaps in operations, and financial vulnerabilities that could affect deal structure.

Sell when you don’t need to - April draws the parallel to borrowing: just like a line of credit, the best time to sell is when you’re not desperate. Selling while you’re in control leads to better outcomes.

The danger of waiting too long - April shares examples of deals where illness, poor results, or market shifts forced sales under pressure - leading to renegotiated terms and lower valuations.

Control = leverage - Sellers who plan early and prepare properly can dictate more of the terms, protect value, and secure a better legacy.

Why Listen

 

If you’re a business owner considering an exit now or in the future, this episode is packed with practical insights into when and how to start preparing. April’s advice can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you sell on your terms, not someone else’s.

 

Want Help Planning your Own Exit?

 

Colleen offers a complimentary 1:1 Wealth Gap Analysis to help you bridge the space between your business and your financial freedom. It’s a strategic conversation to ensure your exit supports your long-term wealth.

 

Book your call here: Email Colleen connect on LinkedIn

 

Help us Reach More Entrepreneurs

 

If you found this episode valuable, please leave a 5-star rating and a short review. It helps us get discovered and bring on more amazing guests.

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The Cash Rich Exit Podcast is brought to you by O’Connell-Campbell Wealth Management at RBC Dominion Securities.

 

All opinions expressed by the host, Colleen O’Connell-Campbell, and podcast guests are solely their own opinions and do not reflect the opinion of RBC Dominion Securities.

 

This podcast is for informational purposes only before taking any action based on information in this podcast you should consult with a qualified professional.

 

Colleen O’Connell-Campbell is a Wealth Advisor at RBC Dominion Securities, a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.